First Laugh Welcome Baby! Written by Rose Ann Tahe and Nancy Bo Flood and illustrated by Jonathon Nelson

First Laugh Welcome Baby!

Written by Rose Ann Tahe and Nancy Bo Flood

Illustrated by Jonathon Nelson

In the Navaho Diné Nation, a baby’s first laugh is the way to celebrate the new one with a time honored tradition.

The burning question throughout this picture book is “When will we hear the baby’s first laugh?” Grandparents, parents, siblings, cousins, and friends from far and near, are all anxious to hear the new baby’s First Laugh. A variety of ways are tried to elicit it: watching, tickling, cuddling, going outside in the cradleboard, or introducing new foods in the kitchen, but the baby’s expression still stays calm. As time goes by and baby grows, the family continues to try new ways. Baby looks around and enjoys, but does not laugh. Regardless, the family stays patient because they know when the baby is ready, it will happen.

Through Tahe and Bo Flood’s gentle text, readers will learn about this unique celebration known as the Diné Navaho Nation’s First Laugh Ceremony. The one who succeeds in getting the baby to laugh also has the honor of hosting the First Laugh Ceremony, and usually develops a special relationship with the baby as she or he matures.

Nelson, a member of the Navaho Nation, creates strong, colorful illustrations that stitch modern Navaho Diné life with one of their most special traditions.

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